I've done lots of research (including a search on this forum) but I can't seem to find much on this subject. I'm using flagstone to create a winding stepping stone path through my yard -- total length about 110 feet. I've dug out a trench 8 inches deep and 40 inches wide. I plan to add five inches of gravel, then place smaller round stones as edging, then add two inches of sand, then place the stepping stones and level them, then fill in with soil and start growing moss. The only reference that mentioned size said the stones should be at least 18 inches wide and 3-4 inches thick, and should be placed with the longest side across the path, not along it. (G. Hayward, Garden Paths.)

I thought you stone gardeners might have some thoughts on this issue. (I fear this may be another case of the dreaded 'it depends.')

Thanks in advance,

-- wd

Practically, I find that when individual stepping stones are much less than 25 lbs, they are too easy to shift. Stones can be 4 or 6" thick if they are buried to leave only an inch or two above the ground. Stones that are 18" wide and a foot deep and 4" thick will weigh more than 50 lbs. The best are stones that weigh as much as the person walking on them - they rarely shift. Use a compacted base, pound in the sand around the stones, and use something other than sand to top it off if you want moss to grow. I use a clay subsoil that compacts well and holds the moisture for moss very well. Good Luck.